Kidney Diet Tips

New Phosphorus Pyramid: Today’s Focus on Phosphorus for Kidney Patients

The Phosphorus Pyramid, a new tool for learning about phosphorus control, was created by researchers Claudia D’Alessandro, Giorgina B Piccoli, and Adamasco Cupisti from Italy. This pyramid does not focus on phosphorus content of foods alone. It incorporates the newer focus on phosphorus load–how much phosphorus is retained due to digestion, absorption and removal (by the kidneys, dialysis and/or phosphate binders).

Foods are organized on different levels based on phosphorus content, protein to phosphorus ratio, and the amount of phosphorus actually absorbed when the food is eaten (bio-availability). The colors from green to yellow to red are a visual guide on which foods are unrestricted, limited and those to be avoided as much as possible.

The pyramid incorporates phosphorus control measures including avoidance of phosphate additives, attention to the amount and source of protein and phosphorus in foods, and preparation method.

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To view the pyramid and description go to the open access article on BMC Nephrology.

 

Additional Kidney Diet Resources

Visit DaVita.com and explore these diet and nutrition resources:

DaVita Food Analyzer

DaVita Dining Out Guides

Today’s Kidney Diet Cookbooks

DaVita Kidney-Friendly Recipes

Diet and Nutrition Articles                                                       

Diet and Nutrition Videos

Kidney Smart® Virtual Classes

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your physician and dietitian regarding your specific diagnosis, treatment, diet and health questions.

Sara Colman, RDN, CDCES

Sara Colman, RDN, CDCES

Sara is a renal dietitian with over 30 years experience working with people with diabetes and kidney disease. She is co-author of the popular kidney cookbook "Cooking for David: A Culinary Dialysis Cookbook". Sara is the Manager of Kidney Care Nutrition for DaVita. She analyzes recipes and creates content, resources and tools for the kidney community. In her spare time Sara loves to spend time with her young grandson, including fun times together in her kitchen.